A Lifetime of Memories
Although it is difficult to truly explain the depth of everything a Scout will do and learn, here is and brief summary of rank advancement through the BSA.
The first rank, SCOUT, is earned by demonstrating a basic knowledge of Scouting ideals and symbolism along with several commonly used knots.
TENDERFOOT, the second rank, recognizes new skills in Scoutcraft, physical fitness, citizenship, personal growth, and Scout Spirit. To earn the Tenderfoot rank, you’ll spend the night in a tent you help pitch, begin learning first aid, assist in preparing a camp meal, and begin learning to use and care for camp tools like a knife, saw, and ax.
To earn the SECOND CLASS rank, you’ll expand your Scoutcraft skills, spending more nights outdoors, building a campfire, planning and cooking camp meals, the using a compass and map, identifying wild animals and plants, and developing swimming and water rescue skills. You’ll also perform community service and begin learning about things like earning and saving money.
Requirement for the FIRST CLASS rank include continuing to build on the Scoutcraft skills learned for the Second Class rank, plus learning about weather, the use of a GPS unit, canoeing or kayaking, more advanced first aid and rescue techniques, and civic concerns like constitutional rights and obligations.
STAR SCOUT, the third-highest rank, is awarded when you have served actively in your unit in a position of responsibility for at least four months, performed at least six hours of community service, and earned six merit badges.
LIFE SCOUT is awarded when you have served in a position of responsibility for six months and performed at least six hours of community service. You must also earn five more merit badges.
Eagle Scout is the highest rank attainable in Scouts BSA. Achieved by two of every 100 Scouts, it is a milestone of accomplishment — perhaps without equal — that is recognized across the country and around the world. Scouts who have earned the Eagle Scout rank count it among their most treasured possessions. “Eagle Scout” is not just an award; it is a state of being.
There are extensive requirements for the rank, including active participation in your troop as a Life Scout for at least six months, demonstration of the Scout Spirit by living the Scout Oath and Scout Law; earning at least 21 merit badges including 14 required badges; service in your unit as a Life Scout in a position of responsibility for at least six months; leadership in a service project for a school, religious institution, or your community; and participation in a Scoutmaster conference while a Life Scout.
Descriptions courtesy of the Great Smokey Mountains Council BSA
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